How to Set Personal Boundaries

To respect and honor your authentic self, you must set personal
boundaries. Your boundaries help define who you are and what you
will and will not tolerate in your life. Learning to set boundaries may feel uncomfortable at first, but the process becomes more natural to you as you move into living and honoring our genuine self. You set boundaries with your professional peers, emotional boundaries in virtually all aspects of your life, and spiritual boundaries as you embark on your life journey.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Know your personal choice, and when to say yes or no. This is the essence of setting emotional boundaries. For example, if someone demands your time or energy and you do not wish to participate, say “no” and if you choose, explain why. Causing a major confrontation isn’t always necessary.

2. Watch for warning signals that trigger the need for boundaries. Various situations require you to set emotional boundaries. You usually receive warning signals. You may distance yourself from someone who is abrasive. You may prefer not to spend your energy on someone who does not live up to his word. If you notice someone is undermining you or putting you down, you may emotionally need to move completely away from the individual. Don’t allow others to take advantage of you, treat you with disregard, or demean you. If you maintain healthy emotional balance, you are taking a giant step on the path to your power. You gain great strength in your emotions and mental health each time you stand up for yourself and protect your emotional well-being.

3. Decide how to set the boundary. If someone crosses your emotional boundaries, you may choose to address the issue outright and work toward a mutual understanding and solution. Or you may decide to quietly set your boundary through limiting your time with that person or being involved in a particular situation. You might also find removing yourself from a toxic environment is necessary. Take time to define your boundaries and seek a solution that allows you to maintain self-respect and live authentically.

4. Make healthy boundaries a part of your life. Your spiritual boundaries help define your soul’s growth. As you pursue your spiritual journey, you will know your truth in your heart. Love, kindness, generosity, and healthy support for your fellow travelers become part of your life as you experience your inner power, joy and peace. Setting boundaries in your spiritual life includes making time to pray and meditate, getting involved with causes that are dear to your heart, cultivating your divine relationship with God or Divine Source, and living fully in your truth.

Resources

• Purchase Jane Robinson's 'The Divine Declaration' to read more on setting boundaries.